Richmond Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

The Code of Virginia § 46.2-924 requires all drivers to stop for pedestrians[1]. While pedestrians should avoid walking in roadways in exchange for using
designated crosswalks and heeding pedestrian control signals, drivers
too must heed the right of way to pedestrians and be vigilant to avoid
collision, as this can be
fatal to a pedestrian. The Richmond pedestrian accident attorneys at Cantor
Stoneburner Ford Grana & Buckner can represent injured pedestrians,
as well as those who have lost loved ones in these types of
traffic accidents.

Vehicles Turning Right on Red

Many pedestrians are injured by vehicles turning right on red. While vehicles
have the right to make this maneuver, provided it is not expressly prohibited
at the particular intersection, they must still heed the right of way
to pedestrians, who usually have a “walk” signal. § 46.2-835
of the Code of Virginia addresses this specifically. The statute specifically
states that motorists “may cautiously enter the intersection and
make a right turn. Such turning traffic shall yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians lawfully within an adjacent crosswalk.[2]”

Pedestrian Injury & Fatality Statistics in Virginia

Approximately 12% of all Virginia traffic fatalities were pedestrians.

Approximately 2% of all Virginia traffic injuries were pedestrians.

There were 211 reported drunk pedestrian incidents in Virginia in 2014.
Approximately 28% of those were crossing in non-crosswalk areas.

Out of the 300 persons killed in speed-related crashes, 17 were pedestrians.

Out of the 13,378 persons injured in speed-related crashes, 86 were pedestrians.

Pedestrian and bicycle incidents are worst in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan
area, accounting for about one out of every four traffic fatalities[4]

Liability for Pedestrian Accidents in Virginia

Who is at fault or “liable” for a pedestrian accident in Virginia
depends on which party or parties was negligent or violated a traffic
law. If a vehicle strikes a pedestrian while the pedestrian was violating
a traffic ordinance, the injured pedestrian may not be able to sue, unless
the driver was also violating a traffic ordinance. This brings up the
issue of contributory negligence, which means that the total damages the
victim can recover could be reduced by the percentage to which they contributed
to the accident.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Obeying all traffic laws does not guarantee that pedestrians will avoid
involvement in an
auto accident, but following these safety tips, based on the Code of Virginia, can help.

Use sidewalks when possible and avoid walking in the road.

Avoid walking on roads and highways specially designated as not open to
pedestrians or cyclists.

Do not stop or loiter on the highway to hitchhike.

Pay attention to all pedestrian control signals. Only “walk”
when the signal displays “walk,” and still look both ways
before crossing the street to ensure your path is clear.

Contacting Cantor Stoneburner Ford Grana & Buckner

If you or a loved one was involved in a pedestrian accident or another type of
personal injury accident, contact our Richmond lawyers today. We represent accident victims throughout
the state of Virginia and have over 85 verdicts and settlements exceeding
$1 million under our belt. Call our “Best Law Firms” rated
practice today for a free consultation!

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The information on this website is for general information purposes only.
Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual
case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt
or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

DISCLAIMER: THE RESULTS OF SPECIFIC CASES REPORTED ARE NOT MEANT TO BE
A PREDICTION OR GUARANTEE OF ANY OTHER CASE. EACH CASE DEPENDS UPON A
VARIETY OF FACTORS SPECIFIC TO THAT CASE.

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